Today, many people struggle with an addiction to a substance or behavioral pattern that can interfere with their ability to function with daily life. However, most addictions start out slowly, and it is only when serious problems occur in a person’s life that they begin to consider seeking help. While it can be hard to watch a loved one or yourself struggle with dependency, it is possible to identify the early warning signs of a growing addiction that point toward a need to visit rehab for a personalized program that will get life back on track.

Increasing Tolerance
For many people, addiction begins with a small action such as taking a prescription painkiller after it is no longer needed. However, eventually a person’s body becomes used to the substance and greater amounts are needed to achieve the same effect. If you have noticed that you or a loved one relies upon increasing amounts of a drug or alcohol to feel normal, then it may be time to consider a visit to rehab to determine if physical dependence is developing.

Relationship Struggles
Addiction can take a toll on personal relationships due to the worry that family and friends feel concerning their loved one’s health and happiness. Those who struggle with substance abuse may also prefer to spend more time alone so that they can engage in their behavior without fear of judgment. Missed social functions, erratic mood swings and the continuous denial of a problem can all have an impact upon relationships that can only be healed through recovery.

Financial Difficulties
Financial strain is another common sign that one’s addiction is spiraling out of control. As one’s tolerance increases, a person may begin to invest large amounts of money into buying drugs or alcohol. Those who experience frequent blackouts or lose their motivation to work may also have problems in their career that can cause financial distress.

Sacrificing Personal Goals
In addition to the deterioration of a person’s finances and relationships, those struggling with substance abuse may also begin to sacrifice their personal goals as they plan their day around their addiction. Exercise and diet plans may be sacrificed. Students tend to experience lower grades, or they may drop out of school completely. Career-minded individuals may no longer be able to keep up with their colleagues and miss out on opportunities for promotion. You may notice that you or your loved one’s plans for success have been derailed, yet it is important to know that there is still hope with the right treatment plan.

Physical Health Problems
Often, a person will continue to deny their growing addiction until they begin to experience declines in their physical health. Drug and alcohol overdoses may land you or a loved one in the hospital. Even those who are fortunate enough to avoid an overdose may still experience damage to their organs such as the liver and brain. Those who attempt to suddenly stop using their substance of choice may also experience severe withdrawal symptoms that can best be managed with the assistance of trained professionals.

Feelings of Fear or Shame
Struggling with an addiction can be an emotional rollercoaster ride, and it is normal to feel fearful or ashamed about losing control. You may notice that you or a loved one has begun to stash drugs or alcohol out of the fear of running out, or it may feel necessary to hide any signs that signify dependency. Many people also feel ashamed that they cannot stop using drugs or alcohol on their own, and they may deny that there is a problem at first. Anger may manifest towards loved ones who attempt to intervene. While these emotional responses can be overwhelming, it is important to remember that addiction is a common problem that can be overcome with the right type of help.

The decision to visit rehab is one that often takes some time, and it may be accompanied by a wide range of emotions. If you have identified some of the previously described behavior patterns in yourself or a loved one, then know that there is always hope for recovery. By arranging for a visit to rehab, you or your loved one can assuage your fears while discovering a new path toward recovery that takes a holistic approach for a healthier life.